Exploring the Relationship Between Illness Perception and Self-Efficacy Among Older Adults with Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Descriptive Study Conducted in Southern Iran

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS), one of the most common cardiovascular conditions affecting older adults, poses significant health challenges. Illness perception and self-efficacy are widely regarded as key factors in the effective management of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, this study examined the relationship between illness perception and self-efficacy in older patients diagnosed with ACS in southern Iran.

This cross-sectional study was conducted from September to November 2024 among 164 older patients with ACS in Fasa, southern Iran, using convenience sampling. Data were collected via a demographic questionnaire, the Illness Perception Questionnaire developed by Broadbent et al., and Sullivan's Cardiac Self-Efficacy Scale.

Of the 164 participants, 102 (62.2%) were male and 62 (37.8%) were female. The mean age was 67.21 ± 5.46 years, and the mean duration of illness was 5.67 ± 4.41 years. The mean illness perception score was 45.32 ± 13.94, while the mean self-efficacy score was 28.96 ± 2.41; both scores were categorized as moderate. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between illness perception and self-efficacy. However, no significant association was observed between demographic variables and either illness perception or self-efficacy.

The study's findings indicate that both illness perception and self-efficacy in older patients with ACS were at moderate levels. Furthermore, a significant, positive correlation was identified between illness perception and self-efficacy. Accordingly, it is recommended that health policymakers and administrators implement strategies aimed at enhancing self-awareness, illness perception, and self-efficacy among this population.